Quite a few responses here, and some very good ideas. I am going to try the two "specialized" programs mentioned here first - Music Label 2007 and the Gracenote AV Cataloger. Both companies offer free trials of their software, so there is nothing to lose. If neither of them are sufficiently customizable, I will probably give Excel a try. (I am surprised that more people haven't gone with Access or another database application, but if Excel works, that's fine with me.)
I agree that backups are essential - you must have been heartsick, Dan_ed. I try to back up about once a week, but if I put together this database/vinyl catalog, I will back it up separately to a DVD disc as well.
Styx - I don't know anything about programming, so can't do what you did, but I will add some of the categories you listed to whatever program I end up using.
Thank you, everyone, for your suggestions.
Holly
I agree that backups are essential - you must have been heartsick, Dan_ed. I try to back up about once a week, but if I put together this database/vinyl catalog, I will back it up separately to a DVD disc as well.
Styx - I don't know anything about programming, so can't do what you did, but I will add some of the categories you listed to whatever program I end up using.
Thank you, everyone, for your suggestions.
Holly